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Diego Torres ViluayroelSpanish writer, representative of the late Baroque.
Date of Birth: 18.06.1694
Country:  Spain |
Content:
Biography of Diego Torres Villarroel
Diego Torres Villarroel was a Spanish writer and representative of the late Baroque period. He was born to a bookseller in Salamanca, near the University. In 1715, he moved to Madrid and took on various jobs, including being a street vendor. After an adventure gone wrong, he was forced to hide in Portugal from 1726 to 1734. Upon his return, he began writing and publishing calendars, almanacs, dream books, and books on magic and occultism. He had a fascination with predictions and gained a reputation as a sorcerer. He became extremely popular among the people of Salamanca and was well-connected in the highest circles of Spanish society. He also taught mathematics at the university.
In 1745, Torres Villarroel was ordained as a priest. In 1742, he started publishing his autobiography, which was filled with adventures and fictional tales, resembling a picaresque novel. It was completed in 1751. In 1752, a 15-volume collection of his works, which was subscribed to by King Ferdinand VI and many courtiers, began to be published.
In his later years, Torres Villarroel became close to the Duchess of Alba and lived and died in her palace, Monterrey.
Works
Torres Villarroel wrote poetry, including satirical pieces, dramatic works, and prose. He developed the traditions of Francisco de Quevedo, particularly in his moral "Dreams." Among his extensive body of work, his "Life" is the most recognized and continues to be reprinted and translated into many languages. In the 20th century, his writings garnered interest from Jorge Luis Borges.
